Your Redemption is near

Dan. 7:2-14, Lk. 21:29-33. The description of the end times can cause anguish to the people. Yet, they are the times of hope and redemption. In the vision of the prophet Daniel in today's first reading, the idea of the four last things is taken: Death, Judgment, Heaven and Hell. As we approach the end of the liturgical year, we are reminded that our life on earth is temporal. We are, therefore, challenged to remember that our daily preoccupation must not blind us to the signs of the end-times because our true destiny is in communion with God. The resurrection is a definitive sign of salvation for all who find their names in the book of life. Thus, Jesus encourages us in today's Gospel: "hold your head high, because the time of your redemption is near." The fig tree is in full bloom and the harvest is near because its full bloom breaks forth new buds on the grey branches. This is a message of hope. The Lord causes new life and hope to sprout through the ruin and destruction. Rays of hope and newness penetrate through the dark clouds of fear and desperation.

It is the power of the Gospel that makes the Word to emerge victorious over all the obstacles and forces of death. The word descended to restore the wounded humanity, has now accomplished its task. When we commit to the word, it continues to accomplish the purpose for which it was sent. During the most drastic changes, the word of God remains constant, reliable, faithful, because God remains true. God is the unchanging rock that endures when all things passes. Being anchored on Him keeps us steady when all things seems to fall apart. He is our rock and our salvation.

May the Lord God grant us the grace to live in conscious vigilant expectation of the coming of the Son of God! Amen!! Good morning and have a gracious day!!!